Piano

"It is easy to play a musical instrument: all you have to do is touch the right key at the right time and the instrument will play itself."
J.S. Bach

The King of Instruments

A versatile and beloved instrument, the piano has had over five centuries of evolution. It reached its modern version with 88 keys and two or three pedals nearly 200 years ago. Every step of the technological advancement allowed for a new playing technique, which, in turn, inspired a new compositional style. J.S. Bach and composers of the Baroque era laid the foundation for beautiful keyboard playing. Modern musicians of all genres follow in their footsteps, bringing about new ideas and styles.

Parents often ask whether to invest in a digital, hybrid, or acoustic instrument. While the digital industry has advanced dramatically in the past decades, good or even average acoustic pianos often sound more beautiful and offer a superior touch compared to their digital cousins. For most beginner-intermediate-level students, a moderately used and well-tuned acoustic piano or a decent-quality digital piano with 88 weighted and graded keys is an appropriate and affordable choice.

When to Begin and How to Succeed

Most children successfully begin piano lessons around the age of 4–6. Preschool students can take a special pre-piano course individually or in a small group (see the “Early Childhood” page).

School-age students (6–8-year-olds) and older (middle school) beginners use method books (Faber “Piano Adventures” or Bastien “New Traditions”) supplemented with repertoire books (Classical, Popular or Jazz), duets, and recital sheet music selections from various publishers. 

Advanced students use composer's editions and mixed piano literature books.

Music theory explains how music works and is incorporated into every lesson. Theory workbooks are a stimulating and fun tool for learning.

Additional theory classes can be scheduled for interested students or to prepare for the Maryland State Theory or Keyboard Musicianship Test.

It has been proven by generations of pianists that correct posture and finger and hand shape not only matter but lay the foundation for proper techniques and the physical and emotional comfort of playing.

Without this foundation and without enthusiasm (!), good results cannot be achieved.

Transfer Students

There is an abundance of teaching methods and approaches in today's piano pedagogy. When starting with a new teacher, a transition period of a month or two is normal. We usually continue with your current books and materials, adding or switching to other sources gradually if needed.

We discuss various aspects, including teacher ethics, at the initial meeting.

Practicing

Volumes can be written on the topic of practicing.

We must practice to make progress, and we learn how to practice better as we progress.

In the early stages, 20–30 minutes a day works for most students. The little ones may need adult support for their 10–20 minutes spent at the piano. Consistency and mindfulness are what really matter.

Golden Rule: Begin to practice the day after your lesson to reap the full benefits of what you learn with the teacher.  Do your best to explore new pieces, set goals for improvement, and play your previously learned pieces and warm-ups daily.

Initial Meeting

All prospective students should schedule an introductory meeting with the teacher to discuss the program, length and frequency of lessons (30, 45, or 60 minutes), repertoire, expectations, commitment, communication, and other issues.

Phone: 240.421.1811

email:Asya.Mirvis@gmail.com